“The results are out!” someone yelled.

People in the Case campaign headquarters rushed to the television, waiting excitedly for the first printout to come onscreen.

The jovial mood at the Case campaign headquarters palpably shifted when the results were revealed: Hirono, 57 percent, Case, 40 percent.  

“Wow,” said Case as he walked up to the TV. “Okay.”

His wife Audrey came to stand with him and they watched the rest of the results together in silence.

Supporters who just a minute before were enjoying music and food sat with anxious faces, watching the TV.  

But as their candidate stood up to give a statement in front of the TV, his supporters stood up as well. When the camera rolled, they were behind him, cheering and waving despite the grim news.

“It’s a pretty steep hill to climb,” Case said.

— Anita Hofschneider